Quote by Abai Qunanbaiuly: “Do not be like the dog, barking at every passerby.”

This advises against being overly critical or reactive to every person or situation. It encourages thoughtfulness and discernment rather than indiscriminate negativity, suggesting one should conserve energy and focus on more important matters, not petty complaints.

Abai frequently critiqued the societal flaws he observed among his people, including gossiping, petty disputes, and narrow-mindedness, advocating for a more considered and enlightened approach to life.

Kazakh poet, composer, and philosopher who is considered the founder of modern Kazakh written literature. His Book of Words, a collection of verse and prose meditations, is a foundational text of Kazakh culture. He advocated for education, humanistic values, and engagement with Russian and European thought while preserving Kazakh traditions.